The Old Guy Bicycle Blog

As an experienced cyclist, I love the challenge of conquering steep hills. But when it comes to riding back down, I can't help but cringe at the thought. The speed and fear of losing control can be overwhelming, and I find myself riding my brakes most of the way once I hit around 40 mph. I know some people are great at riding downhills, and I have a lot of respect for them, but it's just not something I'm comfortable with. However, I know that handling fast downhills is important for any cyclist, so I've learned some techniques to help me get through it. Firstly, I always make sure my bike is in good condition. I check my brakes, wheels, and tires before I start my descent to ensure that my bike can handle the speed and stress of the descent. If I'm unsure, I take my bike to a professional for a tune-up. Secondly, I always wear a helmet. It may seem obvious, but it's worth repeating. A good quality helmet can save your life if you lose control on the descent. I ...

I often write articles about cycling for senior citizens. You never know which one will be picked up and shown by the search engines and that is why I wrote about this topic often. Cycling has kept me healthy and feeling younger than my 67 years of age. Here is another one. Enjoy! By the way, that is me in 2020 on the 4th day of my tour from Texhoma, Oklahoma to South Padre Island, Texas, a 962 mile ride.  As we age, it's more important than ever to stay active and healthy. Cycling is a great way to do just that - it's low-impact, easy on the joints, and can be done at your own pace. Plus, it's a fun way to explore your neighborhood or city. However, there are some special considerations that senior citizens should keep in mind when cycling. Here are some tips to help you stay safe and active on two wheels: Check with your doctor first Before you start cycling, it's important to check with your doctor to make sure it's safe for you to do so. They can also advise you...

Bicycle computers are a great tool for cyclists who want to track their progress and improve their performance. There are a variety of options on the market, each with different features and price points. In this post, we'll take a look at some of the top selling and top rated bicycle computers. There are links to Amazon where you can see details and reviews of some of them. They will open in another window. Wahoo Elemnt Bolt The Wahoo Elemnt Bolt is a popular option among cyclists due to its sleek design and extensive range of features. It connects to both GPS and GLONASS satellites for accurate tracking and has Bluetooth and ANT+ compatibility. The Bolt also has a long battery life and easy-to-use interface. Additionally, it integrates with popular cycling apps like Strava and TrainingPeaks. That is the Elemnt Bolt in the picture. Garmin Edge 530 The Garmin Edge 530 is another top-rated bicycle computer with GPS and GLONASS connectivity. It has a large, easy-to-read color screen ...

Sometimes, life gets in the way of our plans, and we have to adapt. As a cyclist, I know this all too well. On busy days when I can't make time for a ride in the daylight, I turn to the night. There's nothing like riding on a long empty country road at night when the stars are shining bright or the moon is full. The peace and solitude can be almost meditative, and the cool night air can be refreshing. However, riding at night also poses some unique challenges and risks that require extra precautions to stay safe. One of the most important things to consider when riding at night is visibility. Since it's dark, I always make sure that I'm well lit up like a Christmas tree, so other road users can see me. I have a bright white headlight and a red tail light on my bicycle, which are essential for visibility. The spokes on my bike are all reflective too and that helps a great deal when I am crossing intersections. I also wear a reflective clothing and ankle bands , so I...

  Touring cycling has become an increasingly popular activity among outdoor enthusiasts. It provides an opportunity to explore the beauty of nature while getting some exercise. There are many fantastic locations for cycling tours in the United States, but some states have become particularly popular among touring cyclists. In this blog post, we will explore the top states for touring cyclists to ride in. California California is often considered one of the best states for cycling tours. With its stunning coastline, majestic mountains, and beautiful national parks, it has everything a cyclist could ask for. The state also has a wide variety of terrain, from flat roads to challenging mountain passes, making it an ideal location for cyclists of all levels. Oregon Oregon is another popular state for touring cyclists, particularly the Pacific Coast route. The state's stunning scenery includes rugged coastline, sandy beaches, and lush forests. The state is also home to numerous bike-frie...

I am posting this article in the middle of the summer even though it is about winter cycling. There is a good reason for that. By the time Google indexes this post and it gains traction in Google's organic searches, it will be winter and that is why it is being posted in July. Cycling in cold weather can be a challenging experience, especially when it comes to keeping your extremities warm. In particular, the ears, fingers, and toes are the most vulnerable parts of the body during cold rides. To make your winter cycling experience comfortable and enjoyable, it is essential to invest in the right gear to keep these body parts warm and protected. In this article, we'll take a look at the three most important things to have well covered on cold rides and recommend some products from Amazon that can help you stay warm and comfortable on your winter rides. Ears The ears are one of the most sensitive areas of the body when it comes to cold weather. Exposing them to cold wind can caus...

Cycle touring is a popular activity among cyclists of all ages, but it can be especially rewarding for seniors who have the time and resources to embark on longer journeys. However, cycle touring can also be daunting for seniors who may be unfamiliar with planning and preparing for extended bike trips. In this article, we'll offer tips and tricks for planning and enjoying a cycle touring adventure. Choose Your Destination The first step in planning a cycle touring adventure is to choose your destination. Consider factors such as climate, terrain, and cultural attractions when selecting a location. It's also important to choose a route that matches your level of fitness and experience. If you're new to cycle touring, consider starting with shorter, less challenging trips before embarking on longer journeys. Prepare Your Bike Before setting out on your cycle touring adventure, it's important to prepare your bike for the journey. Make sure your bike is in good condition an...

Cycling shorts are an essential piece of equipment for any serious cyclist. Not only do they provide a level of comfort that regular shorts can’t match, but they also help prevent chafing and skin irritation. However, it's not just a matter of putting on any old pair of cycling shorts and hitting the road. There is a proper way of wearing cycling shorts that will help you get the most out of them. In this blog post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the proper way of wearing cycling shorts. Choose the right size The first and most important step to wearing cycling shorts properly is to choose the right size. Cycling shorts should fit snugly without being too tight. If they're too loose, they'll bunch up and cause discomfort, while if they're too tight, they'll restrict movement and circulation. Make sure to refer to the manufacturer's sizing chart to determine the right size for you. Get the right style There are two main styles of cycling shorts: bi...

If you're a regular cyclist or just starting out, keeping a log of your rides can be a great way to track your progress and keep yourself motivated. Whether you're cycling for fun, fitness, or commuting, there are a variety of benefits to keeping a record of your rides. Why Keep a Log of Your Rides? Track Your Progress: By logging your rides, you can keep track of how far you've ridden, how fast you've gone, and how long you've been cycling. This information can help you set goals and track your progress as you become a better cyclist. Motivation: Seeing your progress and achievements can help keep you motivated to continue cycling. It can also be satisfying to look back at your rides and see how far you've come. Safety: Keeping a log of your rides can also help you stay safe. You can note any potential hazards you encountered on your ride, such as a busy intersection or a pothole, and avoid them in the future. Plan Future Rides: By keeping a record of your r...

Riding a multi-day bicycle tour can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it can also raise a lot of questions for those who are doing it for the first time. Whether you're riding solo or with a group, here are some answers to commonly asked questions about multi-day tours on a bicycle: How do I pack for a multi-day bicycle tour? Packing for a multi-day tour requires a bit of planning and strategy. You'll want to pack lightweight, durable, and versatile clothing that can be layered for changing weather conditions. Bring along essential tools, bike repair supplies, and extra tubes in case of flat tires. Don't forget to pack toiletries, sunscreen, and insect repellent. I make a list days before the tour and I have a place to lay everything out and check it off the list. I am not going to give you my list because everyone has different needs but I will tell you this, the weight you are going to be carrying on your bike will be more than you probably are used to....

As a cyclist, there's nothing more exhilarating than training for a big ride or event. It gives you purpose, motivation, and a sense of accomplishment. But what happens when that excitement fades away, and you find yourself struggling to train? This is a common phenomenon called a training slump, and it can be frustrating and demotivating. As someone who has experienced this firsthand, I understand how it feels. Let me share my story with you. In 2020, I was training for a tour across Texas, which was scheduled for the July. I had been cycling for years and had participated in many events, but this one was special. I had put in months of training, and I was excited to take on the challenge. However, around three months before the ride, I started to struggle to put in quality rides. Even worse, I found myself making excuses for not riding. At first, I thought it was just a temporary setback, but the days turned into weeks. I wasn't making any progress, and my motivation was at a...

I have been riding a bicycle seriously for over 50 years. I have done more long distance tours than I can remember and the number of single day events number way over 100, maybe more. Just because I have a long history of cycling doesn't mean I am the typical cyclist you think of. In fact, I am probably heavier than what most of you would think of when you think of cyclists. I was averaging well over 5,000 miles every year but I considered myself to be overweight. The main reason for that is that I rode but never gave much thought to my nutrition. In 2018, I got tired of carrying extra weight even though I was riding over 5,000 miles a year and I started the keto diet. It was very successful as I lost 48 pounds.  I did not feel great at my lowest weight of 182 on my 6'0' frame. For whatever reason, my endurance suffered. Keto is not an easy diet to sustain and I started moving away from it and over the next year I gained back about 10 pounds. I felt better than I had ever f...

  I was put on beta blockers for high blood pressure many years ago. I didn't give it much thought until I started noticing that I would fatigue easier on long training rides than I had before taking the medicine. The weird thing is that the fatigue would come on suddenly and there wasn't much I could do about it once it set in. The ride home was pretty miserable. I discussed this with my doctor and he said that fatigue like I was experiencing was a side effect of beta blockers. He switched to another medicine and I have been good ever since.  Beta blockers are a class of medications that are commonly prescribed to manage high blood pressure, heart disease, and certain types of anxiety disorders. They work by blocking the effects of adrenaline on the body, which can slow down the heart rate and lower blood pressure. While beta blockers can be effective at managing these conditions, they can also have a significant impact on long distance cyclists who rely on their cardiovascul...

Living in Lubbock, Texas means dealing with some of the highest winds in the country. But for cyclists, these winds can be a blessing in disguise – an opportunity to train and challenge ourselves like never before. As someone who has trained in high winds, I can attest to the fact that it's not easy. Cycling against a 40 mph wind for 20 miles can feel like a never-ending battle. It's like cycling uphill for miles on end, except there are no breaks and no relief. But it's also incredibly rewarding. Training in high winds is a great way to build endurance and strength, and it can also improve your bike handling skills. You learn to stay focused and keep your bike steady, even when the winds are trying to blow you off course. One way to use high winds to your advantage is to treat them like hills. When you're going against the wind, it's like riding uphill. You'll need to shift to a lower gear and pedal harder to maintain your speed. But when you turn around and ha...

Cycling can be an incredibly rewarding and enjoyable form of exercise. There are days when it feels like you are riding through Candyland, with the wind in your hair and the sun on your face. These are the days when everything feels effortless, and the miles just seem to fly by. It's easy to get caught up in the euphoria of these rides and forget about everything else. However, it's important to remember that cycling, like life, has its ups and downs. The very next day, you may find yourself struggling through a ride that feels like a journey through the Valley of Darkness. Your legs may feel heavy, the wind may be against you, and every hill may seem insurmountable. It's on these days, when cycling feels like a chore, that it's important to remember the joy and sense of accomplishment that you felt on your last ride. It's easy to get discouraged and give up, but perseverance is key to achieving your goals. Embrace the challenge, push through the pain, and remind yo...

As a cyclist, you may feel like you're in great shape and at low risk for health problems. After all, you're regularly engaging in physical activity that strengthens your heart, lungs, and muscles. However, it's important to remember that even fit cyclists can experience health issues, and to stay aware of the most common problems that can crop up. One common issue for cyclists is heart problems , including heart attacks and arrhythmias. While regular exercise can help reduce the risk of heart disease, it's important to listen to your body and seek medical attention if you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or other signs of a heart problem. Another concern is overuse injuries , such as tendinitis, bursitis, and knee pain. These can be caused by repetitive motions and strain on the joints and muscles. Be sure to warm up properly before your ride, take breaks as needed, and use proper form and technique to reduce your risk of injury. Skin conditions are also a ...

I had someone tell me that they have a friend who used to be a very good runner but that their knees will not let them run anymore. They asked me to give them some reasons to tell their friend why to switch to cycling.  Here are some reasons why your friend should consider switching over to cycling: As we age, our bodies undergo various changes that can affect our ability to engage in certain physical activities. For many, running becomes increasingly difficult due to the impact it places on our joints, particularly the knees. However, just because running may no longer be an option, it doesn't mean that exercise has to be completely off the table. Cycling is a fantastic alternative that offers many benefits for people of all ages, particularly those in their golden years. Low-Impact Exercise : Unlike running, which can put a lot of strain on the knees, cycling is a low-impact activity that is much gentler on the joints. The smooth, circular motion of pedaling allows for a low-impa...

As a cyclist, there are times when you may find yourself struggling to stay motivated, especially when things seem to be going bad. Whether it's a series of bad races, injuries, or unfavorable weather conditions, it can be challenging to maintain the enthusiasm and drive that you need to keep pushing forward. However, staying motivated is crucial for achieving your goals and realizing your potential as a cyclist. Here are some tips to help you stay motivated even when things seem to be going bad: Set achievable goals:  Setting achievable goals is an important part of staying motivated and making progress as a cyclist. Goals give you something to work towards and help you stay focused on your progress. By breaking down your long-term goals into smaller, more manageable ones, you can create a roadmap that will help you achieve success. One of the keys to setting achievable goals is to make them specific and measurable. For example, instead of setting a goal to "improve my cyclin...

Introduction If you are a senior cyclist and have been thinking about taking on a long bicycle tour, this article is for you. In this guide, we'll be discussing why seniors should consider cycling long tours and how to prepare for them. We will also discuss some of the benefits of doing so as well as what to consider before embarking on such an adventure. Preparation Here are some things to consider when preparing for a long cycling tour: Bike maintenance : Make sure your bike is in good condition and ready for a long trip. This includes checking the brakes, tires, chain, and other components. It's a good idea to take your bike to a professional bike mechanic for a tune-up before the trip. Packing : Pack as lightly as possible, as you will be carrying everything on your bike. Consider packing clothes that can be easily layered for different weather conditions, and bring rain gear just in case. First aid : Bring a first aid kit that includes essentials such as bandages, antisept...